Jewish Course of Why

Give your Judaism the intellection it deserves as you discuss and debate the most quizzical, controversial, and seemingly-unanswerable questions about Jewish belief and practice.

No religion is known for its rational basis and its welcoming of questions and intellectual debate quite like Judaism. As Jews we understand that curiosity is the greatest impetus for learning, and that our propensity to question is what propels us to constantly explore new ideas and discover new insights. Nowhere is this more apparent than in The Jewish Course of Why.

In preparing for this course, we asked 30,000 people for their biggest questions about Judaism. We selected the most popular among them and addressed each one with resonant insights from the greatest minds in Jewish history.

The Jewish Course of Why spans a diverse range of topics, from fun, light, and off-the-beaten-track questions, to more complex and controversial issues. Ever wondered why there are so many Jews in Hollywood? Why Jews eat gefilte fish and cholent and wish each other mazal tov and l'chaim? Why the Bible sanctions slavery and animal sacrifices? What is the cause of antisemitism? What does Judaism say about Christianity? About the role of women in Jewish life? You will also gain insight into mysterious Jewish practices, strange biblical narratives, and enigmas of Jewish identity.

This course will provide participants with a deep understanding of numerous traditional Jewish practices and customs and their historical context, and should greatly increase their appreciation for the unending intellectual quest that is a major part of Jewish life.